Yorkton's youth to be ticketed for good behaviour

March 5, 2010

SGI, the Yorkton Alliance of Asset Champions and RCMP are launching the Positive Ticketing program in an effort to continue building positive relationships with young people in Yorkton.

"As a responsible corporate citizen, SGI puts a strong emphasis on activities that provide lasting benefits to youth," said Minister responsible for SGI June Draude. "Positive Ticketing will build relationships between youth and Yorkton community leaders, which in turn will lead to a healthier and safer city."

The program's main goals are to engage youth, increase positive interaction with law enforcement and develop future community leaders.

Local enforcement will give out tickets to youth in the Yorkton area for practising good behaviours. Positive tickets can be given out for things like attending school regularly, wearing a helmet when riding a bike or using a seatbelt while driving.

The tickets will include free passes for swimming, movies or sporting events as well as for food and other treats.

"SGI's support enhances our community alliance approach to developing positive relationships," said Corporal Wes Heuchert of the Yorkton RCMP. "Positive Ticketing by police is getting back to small town policing and it helps youth see police officers as a source of support, instead of just stern enforcers of the law."

This project was developed by the Yorkton Alliance of Asset Champions, which is supported by 20 Yorkton community agencies and business leaders.

"Our organization is committed to cultivating a shared community vision," said Andrew Sedley, Co-Chairperson of the Yorkton Alliance of Asset Champions. "We plan to help young people develop through positive relationships with the police and the community as a whole."

About SGI

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is the province's self-sustaining auto insurance fund. SGI operates 21 claims centres and five salvage centres across Saskatchewan with a head office in Regina. SGI also works with a network of over 400 motor licence issuers across the province.